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University of Pittsburgh    
2022-2023 Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog 
    
 
  Nov 27, 2024
 
2022-2023 Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Communication: Rhetoric and Communication, PhD


The aim of the program is to train rigorous researchers and excellent teachers. To this end it offers historical, theoretical, and critical approaches to the study of communication. The curriculum includes traditional and innovative course work drawn from four intersecting areas of emphasis: History, Theory and Criticism of Rhetoric; Media and Cultural Studies; Public Address and Argument; and Rhetoric of Science.

Requirements for the PhD


  • 24 courses (72 credit hours) required, two of which are core (COMMRC 2296 - PROSEMINAR  and COMMRC 3384 - TEACHING PRACTICUM ), 4 of which may be taken as Independent Study Opportunities (e.g., COMMRC 3902 - DIRECTED STUDY FOR PHD STUDENTS  or COMMRC 3002 - PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ), and 3 of which may be taken outside the Department of Communication. Students entering with a recent MA in Communication or cognate field may be able receive credit toward the PhD.
  • Approved Plan of Study (by end of third semester of degree work)
  • Portfolio-based Comprehensive Exam with Oral Defense (after or near the end of coursework)
  • Dissertation Prospectus and Oral Defense
  • Dissertation and Final Oral Defense


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